IMPACT 2018: A Strategic Vision for South Dakota State University is the university’s strategic plan that, as it has been implemented, serves to enhance the future for South Dakota and its citizens, and meet the challenges of an increasingly global, complex and interconnected society.

The plan’s strategic goals draw on the university’s strengths and commitment to excellence. They are rooted in the university’s historic land-grant mission, which calls for excellence in teaching, research, service and engagement. IMPACT 2018 also provides a detailed set of performance indicators to measure progress.

South Dakota State University is the state’s largest, most comprehensive higher-education institution. As South Dakota’s Morrill Act land-grant university, SDSU had a fall 2017 enrollment of 12,527 from all 50 states and more than 90 countries.

Students can choose from 80 majors, 35 specializations, 87 minors, 36 master’s degree programs, 15 Ph.D. programs and two professional doctorates. The university also offers courses at various off-campus sites as well as undergraduate and graduate programs online through the Office of Continuing and Distance Education.

Barry H. Dunn has served as the 20th president of South Dakota State University since May 2016. He is the fourth alumnus chosen to lead SDSU.